Chicken and dumplings are a classic comfort food loved by many. This recipe, inspired by the renowned cook Brenda Gantt, takes this traditional dish to new heights with its rich and flavorful broth, tender shredded chicken, and fluffy dumplings. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, Brenda Gantt’s chicken and dumplings will warm your heart and soul.
Preparation Time In Minutes: 15 minutes
Cooking Time In Minutes: 35 minutes
Recipe Summary:
This recipe combines succulent chicken legs, fresh vegetables, and homemade dumplings, all simmered to perfection in a creamy and savory broth. The resulting dish is a delightful combination of textures and flavors that will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken legs
- 1 chopped onion
- 3 chopped carrots, 1 whole carrot
- 2 finely chopped garlic cloves
- 1 leek without leaves
- Few parsley stems
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt & pepper – to taste
- ½ cup butter
- 1 cup flour
- ½ cup buttermilk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
Instructions:
- In a large pot, combine the chicken legs, whole carrot, half onion, bay leaf, leek, parsley, and garlic. Cover with water and bring to a simmer. Cook until the chicken is tender. Once done, remove the chicken from the pot, allow it to cool slightly, then shred it into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
- Strain the stock to remove all the solids and return the liquid to the pot. Let it simmer and season with salt to taste.
- In a separate pan, cook the chopped carrots and remaining onions in chicken fat until they soften. Add half of the flour and stir continuously to form a roux. Transfer this vegetable mixture into the simmering stock and whisk to ensure there are no lumps. Cook for an additional 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Now, let’s prepare the dumplings. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the baking soda, baking powder, remaining flour, salt, and pepper. Add the buttermilk and whisk continuously until a soft dough forms.
- Stir in the heavy cream and the shredded chicken into the simmering stew. Drop tablespoon-sized portions of the dumpling dough into the stew. The dumplings will rise and puff up as they cook.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the dumplings cook for about 10 minutes until they are cooked through and tender.
- Once the dumplings are done, your Brenda Gantt-inspired chicken and dumplings are ready to be served.
Brenda Gantt Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
Enjoy this heartwarming dish with family and friends. The creamy broth, tender chicken, and fluffy dumplings will make this meal an instant favorite in your home. Brenda Gantt’s chicken and dumplings are sure to become a cherished recipe passed down for generations.